Apricot production plummets in Pyrénées-Orientales

In Espira de l'Agly, located in the Pyrénées-Orientales department of France, apricot producers are facing devastating losses due to extreme weather patterns. Guy and Marjorie Banyuls of Maison Banyuls reported losing approximately 90% of their apricot production this year.

The region has suffered from several years of drought, which severely limited irrigation from the Agly River. While winter rains initially offered hope, the subsequent flowering season was disappointing, likely a delayed effect of the prolonged drought. The harvest was further compromised by Storm Nils and subsequent hail, occurring well before the summer heatwaves.

Across the department, average apricot production has dropped by more than 60%. In response to these recurring climatic challenges, some producers, including the Banyuls family, have begun diversifying their crops to include avocado, pomegranate, and pistachio alongside their traditional apricot and vineyard production.